Recommended audience includes parents and extended families of children with ASD, teachers, para-professional and BHRS support staff, guidance counselors, social workers, clinicians, advocates, psychologists, counselors, social workers, and all those desiring knowledge about autism spectrum disorders.

Biography:

Emily’s experience with autism began over a decade ago when a child in her life began showing signs that led to an ASD diagnosis. Emily became involved in research opportunities on autism at the University of Pittsburgh then worked as a TSS in Pennsylvania and behavior therapist in Florida while pursuing a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and certification in Positive Behavior Support (PBS). After becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Emily now trains ABA therapists in addition to continuing direct services with children diagnosed with ASD. Emily works closely with families, schools, and other staff to develop programs that decrease problem behaviors and teach new skills such as communication, classroom readiness, and daily living tasks. As the clinical supervisor for Engage Behavioral Health in Pennsylvania, Emily is working to bring more ABA services to serve families in the region.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this program participants will be able to:

Understand the importance of respecting the choices of individuals diagnosed with autism

Identify 6 major components of behavior that can be changed using positive approaches

Use proactive strategies to increase appropriate replacement skills for common issues

Use preventative procedures to decrease problem behaviors

ABOARD's Autism Connection of PA 35 Wilson Street Pittsburgh, PA 15223 (412) 781-4116 The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania certifies that the Advisory Board On Autism and Related Disorders is registered as a charitable organization with the Department of State's Bureau of Charitable Organizations under the Solicitation of Funds for Charitable Purposes Acts, 10 P.S. Section 161.2 et seq., and is authorized to solicit charitable contributions under the conditions and limitations set forth under the Act. The certification does not imply endorsement by the Commonwealth.